One of the most interesting and spectacular events held at our University is ''Miss HSE'' pageant. It attracts everyone's attention and all the students are waiting for the final show with anticipation. It is a pretty long process and goes through a number of stages:

First of all, in the beginning of the year it is advertised in our university press (the ''Course'' newspaper) and  stand's advertisements. The date of casting is named also.

Secondly, the selection of participants is organized. Every girl who wants to take part in the pageant should come on a certain date with 2 pictures of her own, make a little self-presentation, show one of her talents (like singing, dancing or reciting poetry). After that to test their acting abilities girls are asked to perform a sketch in pairs. In the end the judges announce their verdict, which includes the name of 5 or 6 girls who will from now on start preparing for the show.

After a long period of preparation, the time of the final show comes. Some time before it a special issue of the Course newspaper provides students and professors with the information about the participants giving their interviews and photos. The SMS-vote starts.

Finally the date of the show comes. The hall is full of audience, everyone backstage is nervous awaiting. The beginning is always unusual. Participants are introduced. Every girl has her own image, it's either a romantic lady, a vamp, a bicker or a hippy. Everyone is trying her best to impress the jury and the audience performing in this image, dancing and making speeches.

In the end, the results are announced: Miss SMS-vote, Miss Grace, Miss Charm, Miss Runway and Miss Friendship. After a little break the jury finally awards the winner - Miss Higher School of Economics. She receives a crown, a ribbon and everyone's applause and smiles...

I became Miss HSE in 2005.

Pictures and video in the chronological order

Pictures after the Show